2005 seemed like the year that I'd cross the finish line for the first time. The stars aligned, training went well, a talented crew travelled to Loudonville to support and pace me. Although afraid at the start I settled in to a quiet confidence and enjoyed the day. Unfortunately I ran out of steam at 75 miles and called it a run.

In 2006 I was ill prepared for the heat! My feet also hurt. After the water crossing a volunteer noticed my left foot as I changed from the wet shoes and socks I'd worn across the stream into dry pairs that waited for me. Seeing blisters the size of small puffed pastries clinging to my foot he asked if I'd be interested in having a podiatrist examine my foot. Relief! That sounded like relief.

She dried and taped my foot then told me that if I wanted to resolve the problem (I thought it was just blisters) I'd need to see a podiatrist when I returned home.